DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 23rd July 2026

Subject: Geography / Environment & Ecology / Economy

Why in News?

Amid heavy rainfall in the Reasi district of Jammu & Kashmir, authorities opened all gates of the Salal Dam after a sharp rise in water inflow into the reservoir and the Chenab River. The move was undertaken to regulate the increased water level and manage the heavy inflow. 

Key Facts

• Name: Salal Hydroelectric Project 
• River: Chenab 
• Location: Reasi district, Jammu & Kashmir 
• Type: Run-of-the-River (RoR) hydropower project 
• Installed Capacity: 690 MW 
• Operator: NHPC Limited 
• Units: 6 × 115 MW 
• Commissioned: In stages between 1987 and 1995. 

Salal Dam & Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)

The Chenab is one of the three Western Rivers under the Indus Waters Treaty, 1960, along with the Indus and Jhelum.

Under the original treaty framework:

• Eastern Rivers: Ravi, Beas and Sutlej → allocated for India’s unrestricted use. 
• Western Rivers: Indus, Jhelum and Chenab → allocated primarily to Pakistan. 
• India is permitted specified uses of the Western Rivers, including hydroelectric power generation through run-of-the-river projects, subject to treaty design and operational provisions. 

What is a Run-of-the-River Project?

A run-of-the-river (RoR) hydropower project generates electricity largely from the natural flow and elevation gradient of a river, with comparatively limited water storage compared with large storage dams.

UPSC Prelims Perspective

A potential question can combine river geography + hydropower + international water treaties.

Also remember the Chenab River is formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers at Tandi in Himachal Pradesh and is an important tributary of the Indus River system.

https://ddindia.co.in/2026/07/all-gates-of-the-salal-dam-on-chenab-river-opened-amid-heavy-rain-in-reasi/

Subject: Science & Technology / Environment / Infrastructure

Why in News?

The ePlane Company, an IIT Madras-incubated startup, has unveiled India’s first full-scale electric air taxi prototype, the e200X (PT-01). The company is targeting flight testing in 2027, marking a significant development in India’s emerging electric aviation and urban air mobility sector. 

What are eVTOL Aircraft?

eVTOL stands for Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing aircraft.

These are aircraft that use electric propulsion and are designed to take off and land vertically, eliminating the need for conventional runways.

They combine characteristics of:

• Helicopters → Vertical take-off and landing. 
• Fixed-wing aircraft → Efficient forward flight and longer-range travel. 
• Electric vehicles → Battery-powered propulsion and potentially lower operational emissions. 

How Do They Work?

eVTOL aircraft generally use multiple electric motors and rotors/propellers.

The basic flight cycle involves:

Vertical take-off → Transition to forward flight → Cruise → Transition back → Vertical landing

Different designs use different configurations, including:

• Multirotor: Multiple rotors provide both lift and propulsion. 
• Lift-plus-cruise: Separate systems for vertical lift and horizontal cruise. 
• Vectored thrust: Rotors or propellers change orientation to transition between vertical and forward flight. 

Key Advantages

• No conventional runway required 
• Potentially lower local emissions during operation. 
• Reduced dependence on aviation turbine fuel. 
• Can help address urban traffic congestion. 
• Suitable for short-distance intra-city and inter-city travel. 
• Potential applications in: 
  • Air taxis 
  • Emergency medical services 
  • Disaster relief 
  • Logistics and cargo delivery 
  • Airport connectivity 

Challenges

Despite their potential, widespread commercial deployment faces several challenges:

1. Battery Energy Density – Current batteries have lower energy density than aviation fuels, limiting range and payload. 
2. Safety & Certification – Aircraft must meet stringent aviation safety standards. 
3. Air Traffic Management – Integration into existing airspace requires new systems and regulations. 
4. Charging Infrastructure – Requires specialised infrastructure and high-power charging facilities. 
5. Noise – Although generally quieter than helicopters, rotor noise remains a concern in dense urban areas. 
6. High Initial Costs – Development, certification and infrastructure are capital-intensive. 
7. Weather Sensitivity – Operations can be affected by wind, rain and other atmospheric conditions. 

India-Specific Significance

The development of eVTOLs could contribute to India’s emerging Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) ecosystem. It may help address urban congestion and create new transportation options, particularly in densely populated metropolitan regions.

The e200X prototype by ePlane is significant because it represents an Indian effort to develop an electric air-taxi platform, with the company targeting flight tests in 2027. 

UPSC Prelims Perspective

A potential UPSC question may test the technology and its applications.

eVTOL → Electric propulsion + Vertical take-off/landing → No conventional runway → Potential air taxis & urban mobility → Key challenges: battery density, safety certification, airspace management and infrastructure.

https://www.business-standard.com/industry/aviation/india-first-air-taxi-prototype-how-evtols-work-explained-126072000373_1.html

Subject: Geography / International Relations

Why in News?

Okinotori Island has featured in the context of rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, particularly China’s maritime claims and its disputes with Japan and other regional countries. The tiny Japanese-controlled feature is strategically important because of its potential implications for maritime zones and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) in the Western Pacific.

Key Facts

• Location: Western Pacific Ocean. 
• Country claiming sovereignty: Japan. 
• Japanese name: Okinotorishima. 
• Nature: A group of small coral reefs/atolls, much of which is submerged at high tide. 
• Nearest major landmass: Located far south of Tokyo, in the Philippine Sea. 
• Strategic significance: Japan considers Okinotori a remote island capable of generating maritime zones. 
• Japan has undertaken extensive coastal engineering and protective measures to prevent erosion and submergence. 

Why is Okinotori Important?

The central issue is whether Okinotori qualifies as an “island” under UNCLOS or merely a “rock.”

Under Article 121 of UNCLOS:

• An island is a naturally formed area of land, surrounded by water, which is above water at high tide. 
• Islands can generate: 
  • Territorial Sea 
  • Contiguous Zone 
  • Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) 
  • Continental Shelf 
• However, “rocks which cannot sustain human habitation or economic life of their own” have no EEZ or continental shelf. 

Japan argues that Okinotori qualifies as an island and therefore supports its claim to a large EEZ.

China disputes this interpretation, arguing that Okinotori is merely a rock and cannot generate an EEZ or continental shelf.

Strategic Significance

1. Maritime Claims 
   • Okinotori is significant for Japan’s maritime jurisdiction claims in the Western Pacific. 
   • Its status affects the extent of Japan’s potential EEZ. 
2. Military & Strategic Location 
   • Its location provides Japan with a strategic position in the Western Pacific. 
   • The area is important for monitoring maritime activities and regional security. 
3. China–Japan Rivalry 
   • The dispute reflects broader competition between China and Japan over maritime rights and strategic influence. 
   • It is part of the larger geopolitical contest in the Indo-Pacific. 

Important Distinction

Do not confuse Okinotori Island with Senkaku Islands:

• Okinotori: Primarily associated with disputes over its status as an island or rock and the resulting maritime entitlements. 
• Senkaku Islands: A separate group of disputed islands in the East China Sea, claimed by Japan and China (where China refers to them as Diaoyu Islands). 

UPSC Prelims Perspective

The most important concept is UNCLOS Article 121.

Okinotori → Japan → Western Pacific → Coral reef/atoll → Japan claims EEZ → China contests its status as an island → UNCLOS Article 121 → Island vs Rock

One-liner for Revision

Okinotori Island → Japanese-controlled coral reef in the Western Pacific → China disputes its status as an island → key issue is whether it can generate an EEZ under UNCLOS Article 121.

https://theprint.in/world/china-doubles-down-on-confrontation-with-philippine-navy-japan-as-asean-ministers-meet-in-manila/2993068/

Subject: Modern Indian History

Why in News?

On 20 July 2026, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to revolutionary freedom fighter Batukeshwar Dutt on his death anniversary. The occasion renewed attention to his role in India's revolutionary movement and his participation in the 1929 Central Legislative Assembly bombing alongside Bhagat Singh. 

Key Facts

• Born: 18 November 1910. 
• Died: 20 July 1965. 
• Associated Organisation: Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). 
• He was a close associate of Bhagat Singh and other revolutionaries. 
• On 8 April 1929, Batukeshwar Dutt and Bhagat Singh threw bombs inside the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi. 
• The objective was to protest against colonial repression and "make the deaf hear", rather than cause mass casualties. 
• After the bombing, both deliberately surrendered and were arrested, using the subsequent trial to publicise their revolutionary ideas. 
• Dutt was sentenced to life imprisonment and was later imprisoned in the Cellular Jail (Kala Pani) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 

Central Legislative Assembly Bombing – 1929

The bombing was carried out in protest against the colonial government's repressive legislative measures, particularly the:

• Public Safety Bill 
• Trade Disputes Bill 

After throwing the bombs, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt did not flee. They distributed revolutionary leaflets and raised the slogan "Inquilab Zindabad" before surrendering.

The episode demonstrated the revolutionary strategy of using dramatic political action to attract public attention and communicate anti-colonial ideas. 

Prison Struggle

Batukeshwar Dutt was also associated with the revolutionary prisoners' struggle against discriminatory treatment in colonial jails. The revolutionaries demanded better conditions and treatment for Indian political prisoners.

He endured imprisonment in the Cellular Jail, where political prisoners faced harsh conditions. His experiences in prison became an important part of his contribution to the freedom struggle. 

UPSC Prelims Perspective

A potential UPSC question may ask you to correctly match revolutionaries with organisations and events.

Batukeshwar Dutt → HSRA revolutionary → along with Bhagat Singh, bombed the Central Legislative Assembly on 8 April 1929 → deliberately surrendered → later endured imprisonment in Cellular Jail.

https://newsonair.gov.in/hm-amit-shah-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-pay-tribute-to-freedom-fighter-batukeshwar-dutt-on-his-death-anniversary/

Subject: Economy / Agriculture / Geography

Why in News?

The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) has launched Mission Golden Spice, a ₹175.45-crore initiative focused on strengthening the complete value chain of Meghalaya’s GI-tagged Lakadong Turmeric. The five-year roadmap covers 2025–2030 and aims to transform Lakadong turmeric into a globally competitive premium spice. 

Key Facts

• Mission: Mission Golden Spice – Integrated Lakadong Turmeric Value Chain Enhancement Project. 
• State: Meghalaya. 
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER). 
• Anchor Institution: North Eastern Council (NEC). 
• Financial Outlay: ₹175.45 crore. 
• Duration: 2025–2030. 
• Approach: Convergence-led value-chain development. 
• Product: Lakadong Turmeric, a GI-tagged product of Meghalaya. 
• Curcumin content: Around 7–10%, significantly higher than ordinary turmeric. 

Two-Phase Roadmap

1. Phase I – Value Chain Strengthening 
   • Strengthening cultivation. 
   • Reducing post-harvest losses. 
   • Improving processing infrastructure. 
   • Developing cold-chain facilities. 
   • Strengthening branding and GI monetisation. 
   • Improving market and buyer linkages. 
2. Phase II – Expansion & Scale-up 
   • Expansion of cultivation. 
   • Scaling up processing and value addition. 
   • Promoting domestic and international markets. 
   • Building Lakadong turmeric as a premium global brand. 

Important Targets

The Mission also envisages establishing the Northeast’s largest integrated organic turmeric processing and curcumin extraction facility and places significant emphasis on the role of women in farmer institutions and enterprises. 

Why Lakadong Turmeric is Important?

• It is GI-tagged and associated with Meghalaya. 
• It has exceptionally high curcumin content (7–10%). 
• It has distinctive aroma and potential for nutraceutical products. 
• Its cultivation is concentrated particularly in the Jaintia Hills region. 
• The Mission seeks to shift farmers from selling largely raw or semi-processed turmeric towards higher-value processed and export-grade products. 

UPSC Prelims Perspective

The most important fact-concept combination is:

The Mission is also an example of value-chain integration in agriculture, where the focus extends beyond production to processing, branding, GI monetisation, market linkages and exports.

Mission Golden Spice is a ₹175.45-crore, five-year MDoNER-led initiative to strengthen the value chain of Meghalaya’s GI-tagged Lakadong Turmeric, with a target of expanding cultivation from ~2,500 ha to ~7,500 ha and nearly doubling farmers’ remuneration by 2030. 

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2287186&reg=48&lang=2

Subject: Environment & Ecology / Science & Technology

Why in News?

Researchers have identified a new species of lichen belonging to the genus Allographa from Tamil Nadu. The discovery highlights India’s rich but still underexplored lichen biodiversity and the ecological importance of the Western Ghats.

Key Facts

• Genus: Allographa 
• Organism: Lichen 
• New species: Allographa jonesiana 
• Location: Tamil Nadu, Western Ghats 
• Discovery: By researchers from the National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow, and other institutions. 
• The species was identified using a combination of morphological, anatomical and molecular studies. 
• It is characterised by its distinctive lirellate ascomata and chemical composition. 

What are Lichens?

A lichen is a stable symbiotic association between:

• A fungal partner (mycobiont) – provides structure, protection and absorbs water/minerals. 
• A photosynthetic partner (photobiont) – usually a green alga or cyanobacterium, which produces food through photosynthesis. 

Thus, lichens are often described as a symbiotic association between a fungus and an alga/cyanobacterium.

Ecological Importance of Lichens

1. Bioindicators of Air Pollution 
   • Lichens are highly sensitive to pollutants such as sulphur dioxide (SO₂). 
   • Their presence or absence can indicate air quality. 
2. Primary Colonisers 
   • They can colonise bare rocks and help initiate soil formation through weathering. 
3. Nutrient Cycling 
   • Lichens contribute to nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning. 
4. Nitrogen Fixation 
   • Some lichens contain cyanobacteria capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen. 
5. Biodiversity Indicators 
   • Lichen diversity can provide insights into the health and ecological stability of forest ecosystems. 

UPSC Prelims Perspective

A potential UPSC question may test the nature and ecological role of lichens.

The discovery of a new Allographa species also highlights the importance of taxonomic research and biodiversity documentation, particularly in ecologically rich regions such as the Western Ghats.

Allographa → Lichen genus → New species reported from Tamil Nadu → Highlights India’s lichen diversity → Lichens are symbiotic associations involving fungi and algae/cyanobacteria and serve as important bioindicators of air quality.

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2287004&reg=48&lang=1

GS II – Governance / GS III – Economy
Rural Development, Skill Training, and Entrepreneurship

Introduction

RSETIs under DAY-NRLM are driving rural entrepreneurship by providing skill training, self-employment opportunities, and access to bank finance. With 632 institutes across 33 States/UTs, they have trained over 60 lakh candidates since 2009, helping millions secure sustainable livelihoods. By turning local aspirations into viable enterprises, RSETIs are strengthening rural economies and inclusive growth.

Understanding RSETIs: Structure and Approach

Institutional Framework

• Established: Under DAY-NRLM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission)
• Partnership: Ministry of Rural Development + State/UT governments + Sponsor banks (3-way collaboration)
• Reach: 632 RSETIs across 33 States/UTs, 619 districts, 25 sponsor banks (as of March 2026)
• Target Group: Unemployed rural youth aged 18-50 years

Training and Courses

• Courses: 73 courses across agriculture, manufacturing, services, and entrepreneurship
• Format: Free, short-term, practical, residential training
• Alignment: National skill standards
• Credit Linkage: Sponsor banks ensure access to finance for enterprise creation

Impact (Since Inception to February 2026)

• Training Achieved: 60.63 lakh candidates (99.7% of 60.81 lakh target)
• Sustainable Livelihoods: 43.89 lakh candidates secured
• Bank Finance: 22.52 lakh beneficiaries accessed credit
• Recent Growth: 2024-25 highest annual achievement: 6.21 lakh candidates trained

Success Stories: From Aspiration to Enterprise

• Vishnu Bai (Bhopal): RSETI training helped her establish a tailoring business, expand into men’s garments, and secure school uniform orders—bringing financial independence and confidence. 
• Umesh Shivaji Ingle (Akola): From daily-wage worker to noodle entrepreneur, he now earns around ₹30,000 monthly, employs four women, and expanded with an ₹8 lakh bank loan. 
• Sanjay Malagi (Dharwad): RSETI’s photography training inspired him to launch Cinewinks, earning national and international recognition while creating local employment.

Challenges

• Reach: 619 districts covered; 30+ districts still uncovered
• Quality Consistency: Ensuring uniform training quality across 632 institutes
• Post-Training Support: Sustained mentorship beyond credit linkage
• Market Linkages: Access to markets for RSETI products/services
• Technology Integration: Adapting to digital and emerging sectors

Way Forward

Expanding Reach and Infrastructure

• New RSETIs: Establish in uncovered districts (30+)
• Mobile Training: Reach remote villages (Vishnu Bai model)
• Infrastructure: Upgrade facilities for practical training
• Digital Integration: Online components for theory; hybrid model

Strengthening Enterprise Ecosystem

• Market Access: Link with eSARAS, ONDC, GeM for RSETI products
• Post-Training Support: Mentorship, handholding for 1-2 years
• Technology: Promote digital skills and e-commerce
• Value Addition: Link with FPOs and producer groups

Enhancing Credit and Financial Support

• Simplified Loans: Streamline bank credit processes
• PMMY Linkage: Connect with MUDRA scheme
• Interest Subvention: Concessional loans for RSETI candidates
• Insurance: Coverage for enterprise risks

Monitoring and Quality Assurance

• Impact Assessment: Track livelihood sustainability and enterprise growth
• Curriculum Update: Align with emerging sectors (AI, renewable energy, digital services)
• Trainer Development: Continuous upskilling of RSETI faculty
• Grievance Redressal: Fast-track mechanism for trainees

Conclusion

RSETIs are bridging rural aspirations and enterprise, training over 60 lakh candidates and enabling millions of sustainable livelihoods. Their success stories show how they create entrepreneurs and strengthen local economies. To support Viksit Bharat, RSETIs must expand coverage, improve training quality, strengthen credit and market linkages, and align with emerging sectors.

Practice Question

1. RSETIs have emerged as a transformative bridge between rural aspirations and enterprise, creating livelihoods and local economic transformation. Critically examine. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2286911&reg=3&lang=1

GS III – Environment / GS II – Governance
River Interlinking, Rehabilitation, and Environmental Impact

Introduction

The Ken-Betwa Link Project, India’s first inter-basin river transfer, aims to boost irrigation, power generation, and drinking-water supply in drought-prone Bundelkhand. However, the displacement of nearly 2,000 families has sparked protests over compensation and rehabilitation. The project highlights the need to balance development goals with the rights and livelihoods of affected communities.

Project Overview and Benefits

Scale and Infrastructure

• Cost: ₹44,605 crore (revised)
• Daudhan Dam: Across Ken river in MP – over 2 km long; reservoir capacity 2,853 million cubic metres
• Link Canal: 218.6 km to transfer water to Betwa basin
• Other Structures: Lower Orr Project, Kotha Barrage, Bina Complex, Ken Canal System (UP)
• Timeline: Cabinet approved December 2021; construction accelerated April 2025

Intended Benefits

• Irrigation: 9.04 lakh hectares in 13 districts (9 in MP, 4 in UP)
• Water: 4,843 million cubic metres utilized; 194 million cubic metres drinking water annually
• Power: 103 MW hydropower + 27 MW solar energy
• Districts Covered: Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, Panna, Damoh, Vidisha, Sagar, Shivpuri, Datia, Raisen (MP); Banda, Mahoba, Jhansi, Lalitpur (UP)

Background

• Idea: Originated in early 1980s
• NWDA: Set up 1982 to examine interlinking feasibility
• Feasibility Report: 1995
• Tripartite Agreement: 2005 (MP, UP, Centre)
• Cabinet Approval: December 2021

Rehabilitation and Protests

Scale of Displacement

• Submergence: Directly submerges 2,171 hectares of village land; total submergence ~9,000 hectares
• Affected Families: 1,913 families across 10 villages; population ~8,339
• Tribal Presence: Scheduled Tribes account for 33.9% of affected residents
• Environmental Clearance: Mandates completing rehabilitation before commissioning

Rehabilitation Package (MP Government, September 2023)

• Cash Compensation: ₹12.5 lakh per adult (couple counted as single unit)
• Home Compensation: ₹50,000 – ₹1.5 lakh
• Resettlement: Plots in Kawar Karondiya colony (25-30 km from Daudhan)
• Progress (Official): Chhatarpur – 89% land compensation, 96% asset/rehabilitation payments; Panna – 90% land compensation, almost all rehabilitation payments

Ground Realities and Protests

• Daudhan Village: Bulldozers demolished homes on May 13, 2026; villagers allege inadequate warning
• Protests: Two-week sit-in by villagers from Daudhan, Palkhua, Sukwaha; leader detained on July 19, 2026
• Unresolved Cases: Residents allege surveys excluded houses, family members, parcels of land
• Documentation: Aadhaar cards, school certificates, revenue records – proving existence and eligibility
• Collector’s Response: 30-35 complicated cases remain; “Most involve disputes over eligibility or documentation”

Social and Economic Disruption

• Forest Dependence: Mahua, tendu, amla, honey, fuelwood collection sustains livelihoods
• Seasonal Produce: Income for weddings, school fees, debt repayment
• Migration Patterns: Even migrants returned for mahua/tendu seasons; these cycles disrupted
• School Closure: Village school shut for months; children’s education affected

Challenges and Concerns

• Environmental Impact: Construction in Panna National Park area
• Rehabilitation Gaps: Survey exclusions; disputed eligibility; incomplete compensation
• Tribal Displacement: 33.9% ST population affected; traditional livelihoods disrupted
• Forest Dependency: Loss of access to seasonal produce (mahua, tendu, amla)
• Implementation: Rushed deadlines; protests; administrative complexities

Way Forward

Rehabilitation and Resettlement

• Complete Surveys: Ensure all affected families, parcels, and members counted
• Transparent Process: Grievance redressal for exclusions and disputes
• Delink from Deadlines: Don’t bulldoze pending cases; resolve before submergence
• Livelihood Support: Forest dependency alternatives; skill training

Environmental and Social Safeguards

• Forest Mitigation: Compensatory afforestation; wildlife corridors
• Tribal Rights: Ensure PESA and FRA compliance
• Timeline: Don’t rush; honour environmental clearance conditions

Community Engagement

• Dialogue: Address allegations of irregularities (surveys, eligibility)
• Transparency: Publicly accessible compensation records
• Grievance Mechanism: Independent oversight for unresolved cases

Monitoring and Accountability

• Independent Body: Monitor rehabilitation progress and quality
• Documentation: Ensure all displaced families have official records
• Impact Assessment: Socio-economic and environmental baseline

Conclusion

The Ken-Betwa Link Project promises water security and development for Bundelkhand but has raised concerns over displacement, compensation, and forest-based livelihoods. Its success must be judged not only by infrastructure and irrigation outcomes but also by transparent, timely, and dignified rehabilitation of affected communities.

Practice Question

1. The Ken-Betwa Link Project highlights the tension between large-scale infrastructure ambition and the rights of affected communities. Critically examine the benefits, challenges, and rehabilitation issues associated with India’s first inter-basin river transfer project. (250 words, 15 marks)

https://indianexpress.com/article/long-reads/ken-betwa-link-project-panna-national-park-river-interlinking-protest-10797539/